spartapresbyterian.org

The Newsletter of Sparta Presbyterian Church

April 18, 2012

FELLOWSHIP MEAL AND
MANSE OPEN HOUSE:  Sunday, April 22 is
the date for our fellowship meal following morning worship.  Invite a friend or neighbor and bring your
covered dish!  Following lunch, you are
invited to open house at the manse.  The “Pennies for Hunger” offering will also be received at the fellowship meal.

 RELAY FOR LIFE!

The relay will be held
on June 8^th and 9^th.
We need volunteers as well as participants.  Please see Susan Thomas or Teresa Stolt to
register or to volunteer  

OPERATION
INASMUCH-APRIL 28

Volunteers and project
workers are needed.  Projects include
preparation of food, building ramps, yard work, home maintenance, cutting
firewood, and community action-special acts of kindness for public workers.  You may also see Susan Thomas and Teresa
Stolt for further information.

SUNDAY SERMON FOR
APRIL 22

We have a number of
retired military personnel in our church family.  They will readily know the term, AWOL,
“Absent without official leave” .  In our
Luke passage, Jesus finds the disciples AWOL.
They are locked away in the upper room.
They are away from the world without permission, not doing what they
were supposed to be doing.  Just as those
early disciples, we are called out to be involved in the work of the
kingdom.  We are called out to make a
difference in our community and the world.
Perhaps the term we should really use is “all hands on deck”!    I hope to see you in church on Sunday! 

SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE
STUDY , 9:30 AM

Led by Lynda Benton,
“Looking at the Cross” is from the Being Reformed series.  THIRTEEN ATTENDED LAST SUNDAY.  STILL ROOM FOR MORE!

HIGHLAND CAMERATA will be in concert at Sparta
Presbyterian on Tuesday, May 1 at 7:30 PM.
Feature selections for the concert are from HMS Pinafore (Gilbert and
Sullivan), Sleep (Eric Whiteacre), Wings of the Morning (Rutter), Hallelujah
(from Shrek by Leonard Cohen) and Barn Dance (Brant Adams). 

Pastoral Care or
Prayer List

Do you know of someone
who would appreciate a pastoral visit or someone who needs to be on the prayer
listing?  Please help the pastor know of
special needs within the congregation or friends of the church.  You may reach Bruce @ 828-434-0291 or at brucebenton2@aol.com.

CALENDAR OF
OPPORTUNITIES

Sunday, April 22:  Bible Study, 9:30, Worship at 11:00,
Fellowship meal at NOON;  Pennies for
Hunger Offering, Open House at the manse following lunch

Monday, April 23:  10:00 ,
Prayer Shawl Ministry

Prayer Reminder: This week we remember:  Ruth Kelly,
Doughton Tedder,  Ruth Dysart,
Judy Church, Melanie Baker, Judy Crouse, Dr. James Aycock, John Frazier, Vila
Gentry, Luke Hampton, Tam Gambill, Sue Smith, Gladys Holcomb, Alma Lefler,
Catherine McGrady and Mission Team , Lorie Reavis,  David Carpenter, Billie Marsh, Wayne Andre
ws, Bob Lane, William Young, Dennis Franklin,  Dolly Lincoln, Jim Frazier

The Newsletter of Sparta Presbyterian Church

May 16, 2012

 BETH HOLCOMB:  NEW SESSION MEMBER

In a meeting of the congregation on Sunday, May 13, Beth Holcomb was elected to fill a vacant position on the Session, class of 2014.  She will serve for an initial partial three year term.  Beth is a vibrant and contributing member of the church and will be a great asset to the leadership of the church.  An ordination and installation service will be a part of our worship on “The Gifts of Women” Sunday, May 27. 

FREE DENTAL CLINIC:  JUNE 15-16

In 2011 100 dental professionals from North Carolina participated.  43 patients were treated.  Free care given amounted to $245,715.00 for cleanings, extractions, fillings, root canals and 48 new dental appliances (bridges and plates) were offered. 

The 2012 free dental clinic is planned for the Sparta High School Gymnasium on the above listed dates.  Caring volunteers are needed each day for a variety of jobs.  Such volunteering in the past has been found to be interesting and rewarding.  For further information or to volunteer, (shifts are about 4 hours long), please call Alleghany Cares at 372-5959 or Rachel Nitsche at 372-2325. 

GIFTS OF WOMEN DAY, SUNDAY, MAY 27

Our worship service on May 27 will be led by the women of the church.  Participating will be numerous Presbyterian Women who will focus our attention on the contribution of women in the scriptures as well as in our modern, everyday community and world.  Of special focus in the service will be the lives of Abraham, Sarah and Hagar and God’s promises as they dealt with a real life situation in their lives that not only caused conflict, but also resulted in God’s work through them being brought to completion.  We value the many contributions of women in our community of faith, in the Sparta community, and to our world as Presbyterian Women go about the work of faith, love, charity, and hope.  Please plan to attend this very special service.  Following worship, we will have our monthly fellowship meal. 

TRINITY SUNDAY WITH COMMMUNION, SUNDAY, JUNE 3

In our worship on this day, we will come to the Lord’s table, celebrating our freedom through Christ, and recognizing the Trinity on this Sunday set aside to consider God the Father, God the Son, and God the Holy Spirit. 

SESSION DIGEST

The Session met on Monday, May 14.  Among the items considered and acted upon were:

Set Ruling Elder ordination for Beth Holcomb on Sunday, May 27.

Approved bringing the Summer Concert Series under the auspices of the church, with Jane Wyatt, Carolyn Young and Kay Bodeen to continue as committee members,  and approved concert for June 8.

Adopted a policy for internal financial controls.

Studied current committee structure.  Additional information to be presented at June meeting.

Approved a 3-day summer day camp in August to be hosted by Bruce and Lynda Benton

Approved renovation of the church website in a proposal from Imaging Specialists.

Heard report from the Outreach Committee regarding Relay for Life.

Heard report from Buildings and Grounds

                Approved weed control for church lawn and beds.

                Approved installation of decorative features to match new exterior sconce lights on the              sanctuary in accord with the Gift Policy.      

 SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Our summer concert series will continue on Friday, June 8 at 7:30 P.M.   Mary Elizabeth Whartenby, past director of Highland Camerata, and Nancy Walton will present a program of piano music.  For the second half of the concert, Dave Hoffman and his brass quartet will perform classical, folk, and jazz music.  The concert is free and open to the public as an outreach ministry of Sparta Presbyterian Church.  Please plan to attend and invite a friend or neighbor.

EMPTY BOWLS:

Got your tickets?  See Jean Reeves or Katee Hettlemen.  The event is on May 21^st.

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY  

The prayer shawl ministry continues to grow.  Three churches are now involved. Some participate on their own time because of work commitments. At this writing, eighteen shawls and lap robes have been completed and will be dedicated during the worship on May 27, Gifts of Women Day.   Other individuals are invited to attend and participate.  The meetings are held in the fellowship hall on Monday at 10:00 A.M.   

BIBLES FOR SANCTUARY

The current Bibles in use in the sanctuary are of different publishers and translations.  For continuity, it is desirable to have all Bibles available for worship to be the same.  We would then be able to publish all scripture references including page numbers in the bulletin.      The Session has selected the New Revised Standard Version, typically used in Presbyterian worship and publications.  Between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, an opportunity is offered to provide a Bible(s) in honor of or in memory of loved ones or special friends.  We need 50 Bibles total.  Inserts continue in the bulletin through Father’s Day.  The Bibles cost $10.00 each. 

SUNDAY SERMON FOR MAY 20:  Pentecost—one week early!

We’re changing the Liturgical calendar for one week!  When the Presbyterian Women requested to have “Gifts of Women Day” on May 27 my first thought in looking at the calendar was “but that’s the Sunday we celebrate Pentecost!  It’s one of my favorite Sundays and favorite preaching events  Recognizing the Gifts of Women on May 27 was graciously given over to the PW, so Pentecost will reign in our worship on May 20.  You all know the significance of the day.  It was the event in which God breathed on the new church challenging those early disciples to “go forth”.   It is sometimes referred to as the “Birthday of the Church”.  On Sunday  we will consider  “The Birthday” or “Graduation Day” for the church.  Come with anticipation.  Come that we may experience great worship together. Wear something red if you’d like!  Red represents the fire and passion of God.     I hope to see you in Bible Study and Worship on Sunday!  Pastor Bruce

PENTECOST OFFERING

On Sunday we will receive the Pentecost Offering.  The offering is designated for Children at Risk, Youth, and Young Adults. Ten percent of the offering goes to child advocacy.  Twenty-five percent goes to ministries with youth.  Another twenty five percent goes to Young Adult Volunteers, and 40 percent can be retained by our congregation for ministries that help children at risk in our community.  Please give generously to this cause.

NEW BIBLE STUDY SERIES BEGINS, SUNDAY, MAY 20.

Led by Lynda Benton, “Stewardship of God’s Creation” is from the Being Reformed series.  The Sunday morning study will address being a good steward of God’s creation.  There is a strong connection between human activity and the fate of the natural world.  Being a “green” Presbyterian is one of the ways we can follow Christ’s call to love our neighbors as ourselves. The greening of religious communities is a positive development on the spiritual landscape.  The study group meets in the Covenant Classroom after coffee and donuts at 9:30 A.M.   

Pastoral Care or Prayer List

Do you know of someone who would appreciate a pastoral visit or someone who needs to be on the prayer listing?  Please help the pastor know of special needs within the congregation or friends of the church.  You may reach Bruce @ 828-434-0291 or at brucebenton2@aol.com.

CALENDAR OF OPPORTUNITIES

Sunday, May 20:  Bible Study, 9:30, Worship at 11:00

Monday, May 21:  10:00 ,  Prayer Shawl Ministry

Wednesday, May 23:  Children’s Ministry and Choir, 5:30 PM

                                                   Adult Choir Rehearsal, 7:00 PM

 Sunday, May 27:  Celebrating the Gifts of Women Day,  monthly fellowship luncheon and ordination of Beth Holcomb.

 Sunday,  June 3,  Trinity Sunday withCommunion.

Friday, June 8, Summer Series Concert, 7:30 P.M.

Prayer Reminder: This week we remember:  Ruth Kelly,  Ruth Dysart, Doughton Tedder, Judy Church, Melanie Baker, Judy Crouse, Dr. James Aycock, John Frazier, Vila Gentry, Luke Hampton, Tam Gambill, Sue Smith, Gladys Holcomb, Alma Lefler,  Lorie Reavis,   Dennis Franklin,  Jim Frazier,  Catherine McGrady, Kenia Zaira Martinez , Dorothy Poetzsch, Jeff Jolly

Dolly Lincoln’s address is 9945 Kings Road, Gainesville, GA 30506.  She is recuperating at the home of her daughter while continuing rehabilitation therapy.

The Newsletter of Sparta Presbyterian Church

May 9, 2012

 RELAY FOR LIFE!

The relay will be held on June 8^th and 9^th.

PRAYER SHAWL MINISTRY  

The prayer shawl ministry continues to grow.  Three churches are now involved.  Other individuals are invited to attend and participate.  The meetings are held in the fellowship hall on Monday at 10:00 A.M.   

BIBLES FOR SANCTUARY

The current Bibles in use in the sanctuary are of different publishers and translations.  For continuity, it is desirable to have all Bibles available for worship to be the same.  We would then be able to publish all scripture references including page numbers in the bulletin.      The Session has selected the New Revised Standard Version, typically used in Presbyterian worship and publications.  Between Mother’s Day and Father’s Day, an opportunity is offered to provide a Bible(s) in honor of or in memory of loved ones or special friends.  We need 50 Bibles total.  Inserts will be in the bulletin beginning on Mother’s Day and each Sunday through Father’s Day.  The Bibles cost $10.00 each. 

SUNDAY SERMON FOR MAY 13 :  Love:  Just Passing Through!

Well, for the past two Sundays the scriptures have told us we are first sheep, then branches connected to the vine, Jesus Christ.  What will it be this Sunday?  Actually, in John’s gospel, Jesus commands us to love each other.  In reflecting back to being the branch connected to the vine,   love is an outgrowth of being connected to Jesus Christ.  When we are connected through the love relationship to Jesus, then such love produces fruit.  When we manifest the love of Christ in our lives, it moves through us to others.  Love passes through us and continues on.   Paul wrote “love never ends”.    I hope to see you in Bible Study and Worship on Sunday!  Pastor Bruce

SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE STUDY , 9:30 AM

Led by Lynda Benton, “Looking at the Cross” is from the Being Reformed series.  The Sunday morning study this week will address Presbyterian beliefs and the way of the cross, including a look at Confessions of the church.   Join the group for interesting teaching and dialogue. 

Faith of our Fathers, Living Still

A new exhibit at the Alleghany Historical Museum is called “Faith of our Fathers, Living Still”.  It features the churches and other places of worship in Alleghany County.  Items from Sparta Presbyterian have also been added to the exhibit.  The Museum is open Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, 10 am to 5 pm. There is no admission charge.

Pastoral Care or Prayer List

Do you know of someone who would appreciate a pastoral visit or someone who needs to be on the prayer listing?  Please help the pastor know of special needs within the congregation or friends of the church.  You may reach Bruce @ 828-434-0291 or at brucebenton2@aol.com.

CALENDAR OF OPPORTUNITIES

Sunday, May 13:  Bible Study, 9:30, Worship at 11:00

Monday, May 14:  10:00 ,  Prayer Shawl Ministry

                                     6:00, Stated Session Meeting

Wednesday, May 16:  Children’s Ministry and Choir, 5:30 PM

                                       Adult Choir Rehearsal, 7:00 PM

Coming Events in Church Life:  Sunday, May 27:  Celebrating the Gifts of Women Day and monthly fellowship luncheon. Sunday,  June 3,  Communion.

Prayer Reminder: This week we remember:  Ruth Kelly,  Ruth Dysart, Doughton Tedder, Judy Church, Melanie Baker, Judy Crouse, Dr. James Aycock, John Frazier, Vila Gentry, Luke Hampton, Tam Gambill, Sue Smith, Gladys Holcomb, Alma Lefler,  Lorie Reavis,   Dennis Franklin,  Jim Frazier,  Catherine McGrady, Kenia Zaira Martinez , Dorothy Poetzsch, Beth Holcomb.

Dolly Lincoln’s address is 9945 Kings Road, Gainesville, GA 30506.  She is recuperating at the home of her daughter while continuing rehabilitation therapy.

Called Congregational Meeting: 

There will be a called congregational meeting  immediately following worship on May 13 for the purpose of receiving a report from the Nominating Committee to fill a vacant Ruling Elder position on the Session. 

The Newsletter of Sparta Presbyterian Church

May 2, 2012

 RELAY FOR LIFE!

The relay will be held
on June 8^th and 9^th.
We need volunteers as well as participants.  Please see Susan Thomas or Teresa Stolt to
register or to volunteer

PRAYER SHAWL
MINISTRY  

The prayer shawl
ministry continues to grow.  Three
churches are now involved.  Other
individuals are invited to attend and participate.  The meetings are held in the fellowship hall on Monday at 10:00 A.M.  There were
eleven in attendance on Monday. 

THE CHURCH IN
SERVICE

Saturday, April 28 was
a busy day!  Carolyn Young, Carolyn
Ebright, Anne Mackey, and Lynda Benton attended the Salem Presbytery
Presbyterian Women’s gathering at Rumple Memorial in Blowing Rock.  Reports were that it was a spectacular day
with one exception:  They didn’t get to
bring the remains of the dessert they had taken home with them!  Someone, somewhere feasted on what was left!

Also on Saturday, our
Operation Inasmuch volunteers, Teresa Stolt, Susan Thomas, Rich Miller, and Ken
Thomas teamed up with volunteers from other churches for a variety of projects.
Teresa Stolt was a great supervising taskmaster.   The two yard work teams cleaned a total of
six yards for very appreciative people who certainly needed assistance.  Other teams built ramps for those needing
access to their homes.   It was a great
day in service and ministry.

AN EYE-OPENING
LETTER FROM MATTHEW HETTLEMAN

Last week, the pastor
received a letter from Matthew Hettleman.
I would like to share the contents of the letter with you.

“Dear Pastor Benton,
the walnut tree is not blooming that is in the back parking lot.  I only found 1 walnut. (which I have taped to
this note.)  It is best to see a tree
specialist about it.  My Grandpa has the
same kind of tree.  It is not blooming
either.  Sincerely Matthew Hettleman.”

Enter: “THE
PRESBYTERIAN FINGERS” GARDEN CLUB!

In response to
Matthew’s letter, have you noticed that the raised bed around the walnut tree
in the church lawn near Brown’s restaurant is in poor condition?  Needed are a couple of volunteers to remove
weeds and recondition the flower bed.
The walnut tree is also in some distress and the cleanup will improve
the health of the tree.  Please contact
Kay Bodeen, who will coordinate this work effort it you’d like to get your
fingers in the dirt.    She will schedule the work in the next week
or two.  It should be an easy job with
two or three to assist. 

SUNDAY SERMON FOR
MAY 6 : 

And speaking of plant
health!  Are you attached to the True
Vine?  You know that we are the
branches.  The branch, disconnected from
the vine does not bear fruit.  If we keep
our life connected to Jesus, we will grow.
Our life will produce beautiful leaves and delicious fruit.  Separated from Jesus, our leaves will wither
and die and we will never put forth any fruit.
Come  to hear the rest of the
story.    I hope
to see you in Bible Study and Worship on Sunday!  Pastor Bruce

SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE
STUDY , 9:30 AM

Led by Lynda Benton,
“Looking at the Cross” is from the Being Reformed series.  The Sunday morning study this week will
address Presbyterian beliefs and the way of the cross, including a look at
Confessions of the church.   Join the group for interesting teaching and
dialogue. 

Faith of our
Fathers, Living Still

A new exhibit at the
Alleghany Historical Museum is called “Faith of our Fathers, Living
Still”.  It features the churches and
other places of worship in Alleghany County.
Items from Sparta Presbyterian have also been added to the exhibit.  The Museum is open Thursdays, Fridays, and
Saturdays, 10 am to 5 pm. There is no admission charge.

Pastoral Care or
Prayer List

Do you know of someone
who would appreciate a pastoral visit or someone who needs to be on the prayer
listing?  Please help the pastor know of
special needs within the congregation or friends of the church.  You may reach Bruce @ 828-434-0291 or at brucebenton2@aol.com.

CALENDAR OF
OPPORTUNITIES

Sunday, May 6:  Bible Study, 9:30, Worship at 11:00

Monday, May 7:  10:00 ,
Prayer Shawl Ministry

Wednesday, May 9:  Children’s Ministry and Choir, 5:30 PM

Adult Choir Rehearsal, 7:00 PM

Prayer Reminder: This week we remember:  Ruth Kelly,
Ruth Dysart, Doughton Tedder, Judy Church, Melanie Baker, Judy Crouse,
Dr. James Aycock, John Frazier, Vila Gentry, Luke Hampton, Tam Gambill, Sue
Smith, Gladys Holcomb, Alma Lefler,  Lorie Reavis,   Dennis
Franklin,  Jim Frazier,  Catherine McGrady, Kenia Zaira Martinez , Dorothy
Poetzsch.

Dolly Lincoln’s address
is 9945 Kings Road, Gainesville, GA 30506.  She is recuperating at the home of
her daughter while continuing rehabilitation therapy.

Called
Congregational Meeting: 

There will be a called
congregational meeting on May 13 for the purpose of hearing a report from the
Nominating Committee to fill a vacant Ruling Elder position on the
Session.  подаръци

The Newsletter of Sparta Presbyterian Church

April 25, 2012

HIGHLAND CAMERATA will be in concert at Sparta
Presbyterian on Tuesday, May 1 at 7:30 PM.
Feature selections for the concert are from HMS Pinafore (Gilbert and
Sullivan), Sleep (Eric Whiteacre), Wings of the Morning (Rutter), Hallelujah
(from Shrek by Leonard Cohen), and Barn Dance (Brant Adams). 

 RELAY FOR LIFE!

The relay will be held
on June 8^th and 9^th.
We need volunteers as well as participants.  Please see Susan Thomas or Teresa Stolt to register
or to volunteer  

OPERATION
INASMUCH-APRIL 28:  ALL HANDS ON DECK!

Volunteers are to meet
in the rear parking lot of Sparta Presbyterian on Saturday morning at 9:00
AM.  We will be doing “yard work”.  Bring your tools and gloves!  See you there! 

PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN:  The Salem Presbytery 25^th Annual Spring Gathering
of Presbyterian Women will be at Rumple Memorial Presbyterian in Blowing Rock
on Saturday, April 28.  The guest speaker
will be Joelle Nealy of Ten Thousand Villages, Greensboro, North Carolina. 

SUNDAY SERMON FOR
APRIL 29 :  “Knowing the Shepherd”.  The shepherd is responsible for the sheep,
not the sheep for the shepherd.  The
worst of it is that we sometimes think we are both sheep and shepherd, that we
have to both guide and follow.  Not
so!  Happy we are to realize that the
shepherd is responsible , that he goes before and goodness and mercy shall
follow.  The important question is
this:  “Do you know the Shepherd?”  If not before, I hope to see you in Bible
Study and Worship on Sunday!  Pastor
Bruce

SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE
STUDY , 9:30 AM

Led by Lynda Benton,
“Looking at the Cross” is from the Being Reformed series. 

Faith of our
Fathers, Living Still

A new exhibit at the
Alleghany Historical Museum is called “Faith of our Fathers, Living
Still”.  It features the churches and
other places of worship in Alleghany County.
Items from Sparta Presbyterian have also been added to the exhibit.  The Museum is open Thursdays, Fridays, and
Saturdays, 10 am to 5 pm. There is no admission charge.

Pastoral Care or
Prayer List

Do you know of someone
who would appreciate a pastoral visit or someone who needs to be on the prayer
listing?  Please help the pastor know of
special needs within the congregation or friends of the church.  You may reach Bruce @ 828-434-0291 or at brucebenton2@aol.com.

Pennies for Hunger: The offering received last Sunday was
$82.05

CALENDAR OF
OPPORTUNITIES

Sunday, April 29:  Bible Study, 9:30, Worship at 11:00

Monday, April 30:  10:00 ,
Prayer Shawl Ministry

Tuesday, May 1:  Highland Camerata in concert at 7:30 PM

Wednesday, May 2:  Children’s Ministry and Choir, 5:30 PM

Adult Choir Rehearsal, 7:00 PM

Prayer Reminder: This week we remember:  Ruth Kelly,
Doughton Tedder,  Ruth Dysart, Doughton
Tedder, Judy Church, Melanie Baker, Judy Crouse, Dr. James Aycock, John
Frazier, Vila Gentry, Luke Hampton, Tam Gambill, Sue Smith, Gladys Holcomb,
Alma Lefler,  Lorie Reavis,   William
Young, Dennis Franklin,  Jim Frazier,
Kenia Zaira Martinez

Dolly Lincoln’s address
is 9945 Kings Road, Gainesville, GA 30506.  She is recuperating at the home of
her daughter while continuing rehabilitation therapy.

Sympathy is expressed
to the family of Patsy Gail Wingler in her death.  She was the neice of Doris Stoker and the
cousin of Susan Thomas.

Called Congregational
Meeting:  There will be a called
congregational meeting on May 13 for the purpose of hearing a report from the
Nominating Committee to fill a vacant Ruling Elder position on the Session. 

The Newsletter of Sparta Presbyterian Church

April 18, 2012

FELLOWSHIP MEAL AND
MANSE OPEN HOUSE:  Sunday, April 22 is
the date for our fellowship meal following morning worship.  Invite a friend or neighbor and bring your
covered dish!  Following lunch, you are
invited to open house at the manse.  The “Pennies for Hunger” offering will also be received at the fellowship meal.

 RELAY FOR LIFE!

The relay will be held
on June 8^th and 9^th.
We need volunteers as well as participants.  Please see Susan Thomas or Teresa Stolt to
register or to volunteer  

OPERATION
INASMUCH-APRIL 28

Volunteers and project
workers are needed.  Projects include
preparation of food, building ramps, yard work, home maintenance, cutting
firewood, and community action-special acts of kindness for public workers.  You may also see Susan Thomas and Teresa
Stolt for further information.

SUNDAY SERMON FOR
APRIL 22

We have a number of
retired military personnel in our church family.  They will readily know the term, AWOL,
“Absent without official leave” .  In our
Luke passage, Jesus finds the disciples AWOL.
They are locked away in the upper room.
They are away from the world without permission, not doing what they
were supposed to be doing.  Just as those
early disciples, we are called out to be involved in the work of the
kingdom.  We are called out to make a
difference in our community and the world.
Perhaps the term we should really use is “all hands on deck”!    I hope to see you in church on Sunday! 

SUNDAY MORNING BIBLE
STUDY , 9:30 AM

Led by Lynda Benton,
“Looking at the Cross” is from the Being Reformed series.  THIRTEEN ATTENDED LAST SUNDAY.  STILL ROOM FOR MORE!

HIGHLAND CAMERATA will be in concert at Sparta
Presbyterian on Tuesday, May 1 at 7:30 PM.
Feature selections for the concert are from HMS Pinafore (Gilbert and
Sullivan), Sleep (Eric Whiteacre), Wings of the Morning (Rutter), Hallelujah
(from Shrek by Leonard Cohen) and Barn Dance (Brant Adams). 

Pastoral Care or
Prayer List

Do you know of someone
who would appreciate a pastoral visit or someone who needs to be on the prayer
listing?  Please help the pastor know of
special needs within the congregation or friends of the church.  You may reach Bruce @ 828-434-0291 or at brucebenton2@aol.com.

CALENDAR OF
OPPORTUNITIES

Sunday, April 22:  Bible Study, 9:30, Worship at 11:00,
Fellowship meal at NOON;  Pennies for
Hunger Offering, Open House at the manse following lunch

Monday, April 23:  10:00 ,
Prayer Shawl Ministry

Prayer Reminder: This week we remember:  Ruth Kelly,
Doughton Tedder,  Ruth Dysart,
Judy Church, Melanie Baker, Judy Crouse, Dr. James Aycock, John Frazier, Vila
Gentry, Luke Hampton, Tam Gambill, Sue Smith, Gladys Holcomb, Alma Lefler,
Catherine McGrady and Mission Team , Lorie Reavis,  David Carpenter, Billie Marsh, Wayne Andre
ws, Bob Lane, William Young, Dennis Franklin,  Dolly Lincoln, Jim Frazier

The Newsletter of Sparta Presbyterian Church

April 11, 2012

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS 

During our worship on
Sunday, three new members will be brought into the fellowship of the church
family.  Mack and Frankie Pittman have
been visiting with us.  They moved to
Sparta in September for their permanent home and now wish for Sparta
Presbyterian to be their church home.
They come to us from Rhama Presbyterian Church in Huntersville where
Mack was an Elder and Deacon.  Frankie
served on the Worship Committee.  They live
at 510 Green Mountain Road.  Their
address is P.O. Box 1447, Sparta.  Phone
is 704-907- 8283.  Mack is retired career
military (Army) and Frankie is retired as a speech pathologist.   They
have one son and two grandchildren who live in New York.  Also presented for membership is Lynda
Benton.  Lynda comes to Sparta from
Lystra Baptist Church in Chapel Hill.
She is already active in Presbyterian Women and the Prayer Shawl Ministry.  She also teaches adult Bible study.  She lives with the pastor!  Let us welcome these newest members!   If not before, I am looking forward to seeing you in
worship  Sunday.  Pastor Bruce

 RELAY FOR LIFE!

The relay will be held
on June 8^th and 9^th.
We need volunteers as well as participants.  Please
see Susan Thomas or Teresa Stolt to register or to volunteer  

OPERATION
INASMUCH-APRIL 28

Volunteers and project
workers are needed.  Projects include
preparation of food, building ramps, yard work, home maintenance, cutting
firewood, and community action-special acts of kindness for public
workers.  Also needed are volunteers to
do roofing jobs and workers to build the emergency house on Dave Smith
Street.  Immediate need is for a roof job
to be done on April 14.  Call John McCray
@657-2103 if you would be interested in roofing.  You may also see Susan Thomas and Teresa
Stolt for further information.

SUNDAY SERMON FOR
APRIL 15

Seeing is
Believing!  Well, maybe not really when
photos can be “photo-shopped” and things may not always appear as they really
are.  Thomas, the doubting disciple,
could not bring himself to believe that the risen Christ was appearing before
him.  With Thomas, although it seems to
be doubt, it probably was a growth test in faith.  We live in a
“prove it to me” society”.  We are
very accustomed to questioning and having things proven to us.  On Sunday, our lesson from John’s gospel is
about a living, vibrant faith.  May we
exclaim with Thomas “my Lord and my God!”.

NEW BIBLE STUDY
BEGINS

The adult Bible study
group has begun a new study.  Led by
Lynda Benton, “Looking at the Cross” is from the Being Reformed
series.  It’s not to late to join the study
in  the Covenant classroom at 9:30 AM on
Sunday morning.  

Pastoral Care or
Prayer List

Do you know of someone
who would appreciate a pastoral visit or someone who needs to be on the prayer
listing?  Please help the pastor know of
special needs within the congregation or friends of the church.  You may reach Bruce @ 828-434-0291 or at brucebenton2@aol.com.

THE SESSION DIGEST

The Session met on
Monday, April 9.  Among the items
discussed and acted upon are these:

Support for the Lion’s
Club in the placement of flags on Main Street

Support for Massanetta
Springs

Final decision for
property and liability insurance.

Approval of calendar
event for Sunday, May 27 to be designated as “Gifts of Women” Day and the
annual Birthday Offering. 

Moved Communion date
from May 27^th to Trinity Sunday on June 3.

Adoption of a “Gift
Policy” for the receiving of special gifts to the church.

Approved the purchase
of new Bibles for the sanctuary (NRSV) with an opportunity for Bibles to be
given “in memory of” or “in honor of” by the congregation.  This will occur during the period between
Mother’s Day and Father’s Day.
Additional information will be forthcoming.

Approved support for
attendance at the Churchwide Gathering of Presbyterian Women in July.

Heard reports from Buildings
and Grounds Committee and approved an upgrade of energy efficient lighting for
the fellowship hall and education building; Also heard reports and discussed
Community Outreach and Congregational Care.

CALENDAR OF
OPPORTUNITIES

Wednesday, April
11:   Presbyterian Women Coordinating
Council, 9:30 AM, Presbyterian Women, 10:30 AM, Children’s Choir and Ministry, 5:30
PM, Adult Choir Rehearsal, 7:00 PM

Sunday, April 15:  Bible Study, 9:30, Worship at 11:00 including
receiving new members.

Monday, April 16:  10:00 ,
Prayer Shawl Ministry

FOURTH SUNDAY
LUNCHEON/OPEN HOUSE AT THE MANSE

We will share in our
fellowship meal and ” pennies for hunger” offering on Sunday, April 22.  There will also be an “open house” at the
manse following lunch.   

Prayer Reminder: This week we remember:  Ruth Kelly,
Doughton Tedder,  Ruth Dysart,
Judy Church, Melanie Baker, Judy Crouse, Dr. James Aycock, John Frazier, Vila
Gentry, Luke Hampton, Tam Gambill, Sue Smith, Gladys Holcomb, Alma Lefler,
Catherine McGrady and Mission Team , Lorie Reavis,  David Carpenter, Billie Marsh, Wayne Andre
ws, Bob Lane, William Young, Dennis Franklin,  Dolly Lincoln, Jim Frazier

CELEBRATING EASTER  SUNDAY
Resurrection makes “forever” possible.  Without resurrection Jesus would have been long forgotten as just another person who was nailed to a Roman cross.  Jesus himself didn’t leave his own paper trail.  He never wrote a book or even a letter and yet more books have been written about him than any other person in history.  He didn’t write down his sermons, yet his  followers thought they were important enough to preserve every word.  He never blogged.  He never friended anyone on facebook, yet he was a friend to everyone, especially  the broken and the outcast.  The story of Jesus isn’t one that’s just preserved in print.  It is preserved in his nail-scarred, resurrected body.  The empty tomb stands as God’s ultimate last word on human suffering and death.  As God raised Jesus from the dead, the promise is that we too, will be raised to a new life in a renewed world where we’ll not only be remembered, but see Jesus face to face.
If not before, I am looking forward to seeing you in worship  Sunday.  Pastor Bruce
GIFT TO THE LIBRARY:

Al-Anon meets at the church on Tuesday evenings.  They have presented a book for the church library, How Al-Anon Works for Families & Friends of Alcoholics.  The book has been shelved and is available for check-out.

 RELAY FOR LIFE!
The relay will be held on June 8th and 9th.  We need volunteers as well as participants.  Please  see Susan Thomas or Teresa Stolt to register or to volunteer.
OPERATION INASMUCH-APRIL 28
Volunteers and project workers are needed.  Projects include preparation of food, building ramps, yard work, home maintenance, cutting firewood, and community action-special acts of kindness for public workers.  Also needed are volunteers to do roofing jobs and workers to build the emergency house on Dave Smith Street.  Immediate need is for a roof job to be done on April 14.  Call John McCray @657-2103 if you would be interested in roofing.  You may also see Susan Thomas and Teresa Stolt for further information.
SUNDAY SERMON FOR APRIL 8, EASTER
The Experts Were Wrong!  What brought Mary to the tomb on that first Easter Sunday?  She anticipated visiting the tomb of a dead friend.  She was wrong.  There were a lot of wrong interpretations of what had happened to Jesus—and what was about to happen.  What will your expectation be in coming to church on Easter Sunday?  If you come expecting nothing, that’s probably what you’ll get.  Maybe, just maybe you’ll come with great expectation and get more than you bargained for!
HOSPICE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
There is a need for “sitters” as Hospice volunteers.  Please contact Hospice @ 372-8018 for additional information.
NEW BIBLE STUDY BEGINS
The adult Bible study group will begin a new study on Sunday, April 8 at 9:30 AM.  Join in for some of George White’s fabulous coffee and donuts and for the new study, Looking at the Cross from the “Being Reformed” series.  The class meets with Lynda Benton in the Covenant classroom.

PASTORAL CARE AND PRAYER LIST
Do you know of someone who would appreciate a pastoral visit or someone who needs to be on the prayer listing Please help the pastor know of special needs within the congregation or  friends of the church.  You may reach Bruce @ 828-434-0291 or at brucebenton2@aol.com.
LILIES FOR EASTER
Thirty-seven lilies will add to the beauty of our Easter worship.  The lily was brought to the U.S. from Japan in 1875.  This traditional flower of Easter is a joyful symbol of elegance, beauty, spirituality, hope and life.  The bulb represents the tomb.  The snow white flower symbolizes hope and purity.  The trumpet shape symbolizes Gabriel’s trumpet call to rebirth and new life.  Come and see!

ONE GREAT HOUR OF SHARING 
Easter Sunday, we will receive the One Great Hour of Sharing offering.  Since 1949 Presbyterians have joined with millions of other Christians through One Great Hour of Sharing to share God’s love with those in need.  Your generous gifts assist those affected by natural disasters, provide food for the hungry, and help build strong communities.
CALENDAR OF OPPORTUNITIES
Friday, April 6, NOON.  Good Friday Service.
Sunday, April 8:  Bible Study, 9:30 AM
Celebration of Easter, 11:00 AM
Monday, April 9:  10:00 ,  Prayer Shawl Ministry
6:00,  Session Meeting
Wednesday, April 11:  9:30 AM.  Presbyterian Women Coordinating Council; Presbyterian Women, 10:30 AM. Children ‘s  Activities and Choir, 5:30 PM .  No adult choir rehearsal  on April 11.
PRAYER REMINDER

This week we remember:  Ruth Kelly,   Doughton Tedder,  Ruth Dysart, Judy Church, Melanie Baker, Judy Crouse, Dr. James Aycock, John Frazier, Vila Gentry, Luke Hampton, Tam Gambill, Sue Smith, Gladys Holcomb, Alma Lefler, Catherine McGrady , Lorie Reavis,  David Carpenter, Billie Marsh, Wayne Andre ws, Bob Lane, William Young, Dennis Franklin,  Dolly Lincoln, and Jim Frazier.
GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE:

A Good Friday service is planned for April 6 at NOON. The service is designed for those who would attend on their lunch hour.  The community will be invited to worship with us.  Please invite your friends, neighbors, and co-workers to attend.
CATHERINE McGRADY.

Catherine and her mission team have made it safely out of Mali.  Their safe travel out of the country following the coup  was a matter of our prayers on Sunday.  Her e-mail is posted on the bulletin board in the education building for further information.

The Newsletter of Sparta Presbyterian Church

March 28, 2012

CELEBRATING PALM
SUNDAY

Is Jesus the center of
your world?  In celebrating Palm Sunday,
we are, in fact, declaring that Jesus is the center of our world.  The people of the day thought Jesus would be
a political savior, someone who might turn around their economic woes, someone
who would bring a measure of liberty to the tyranny of the Roman Empire.  They welcomed Jesus like our cheering throngs
today saying JE-SUS!, JE-SUS!, JE-SUS!.
But their cheers feel flat.  They
were not ready to embrace him as one whose teachings they could follow.  They did not get it that the first will be
last, and the last first.  They did not
applaud the idea that there’s no greater joy or mission than to serve
others.  There are plenty of struggling
Christians around.  Most of us struggle
with our faith from time to time.  Life
circumstances cause us to doubt God’s goodness.
Bad habits keep us ashamed.
Failures haunt us.  When we open
our lives to Christ, opening the gates of the center of our lives, our
predominant experience is that faith is not a burden.  Faith is a delight.  That is the reason that our cheers should be
“Hosanna! Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord!” 

If not before, I am
looking forward to seeing you in worship  Sunday.
Pastor Bruce

LET THE LITTLE
CHILDREN COME……

The children who attend
our Wednesday evening Children’s Choir and Ministry program will be with us in
our worship on Palm Sunday.  Through song
and the waving of palms, they will exclaim,  “Hosanna! Blessed is He who comes in the name
of the Lord”.  Come  Sunday with the expectation of receiving your
own blessing as our wonderful children and choir sing! 

The Lenten Services,
sponsored by the Ministerium, have been held on successive Wednesday’s at noon.
Today is the last service.   A light
lunch is served following the service.
Services are at Sparta United Methodist Church.   Many thanks to those who have prayerfully
supported these services.  Our
Presbyterian Women did an excellent job with the meal last week.   You may want to ask Carol Norris for her
cookie recipe.  No calories!   

COMMUNION
PREPARATION:

Two volunteers came
forward last week saying that they would like to prepare communion for dates
that are established throughout the year.
The remaining communion dates for 2012 are April 8 (Easter), May 27,
October 7, and November 25.  A December
date has not been determined. The elements of communion will be provided for
preparation, which should occur on the morning prior to the worship service.  It would be nice to have two additional people
to assist with communion preparation.
Please speak with the pastor if
you would volunteer for this area of service.
Rich Miller is assisting with Easter
Communion preparation.

RELAY FOR LIFE!

The relay will be held
on June 8^th and 9^th.
We need volunteers as well as participants.  There is a $10.00 registration fee.  There will be a brief meeting following
worship on Sunday to get T-Shirt sizes and to provide additional information. See
Susan Thomas or Teresa Stolt.   

Prayer Shawl
Ministry

The women of the church
and other community churches have begun a prayer shawl ministry.   The
next meeting is on Thursday, March 29at 10:30 in the fellowship hall.   

Pastoral Care or
Prayer List

Do you know of someone
who would appreciate a pastoral visit or someone who needs to be on the prayer
listing Please help the pastor know of special needs within the congregation or  friends of the church.  You may reach Bruce @ 828-434-0291 or at
brucebenton2@aol.com.

Sunday Sermon for
April 1—PALM SUNDAY

My Way, or the other
Way?  The crowds that lined the streets
for Jesus’ ride into Jerusalem wanted a king who  would rule the way they wanted.  They wanted things to be their way.  We all like for things to be “our way”.  We want our church, our worship and our lives
to be “our way”.  We take so many things
for granted.  Do we grasp the full
meaning of Palm Sunday, Holy Week, and Easter.
Do we still just want it “our way” based on traditions, or are we open to
believing , “Greater love has no one than this:
to lay down one’s life for one’s friend”?   That’s what Jesus did for us.  That was His Way!   Come  Sunday for the rest of the story.

Lilies for Easter

The Worship Committee
is providing an opportunity for the church family to offer lilies for the
chancel area  Easter Sunday.  An insert will be in the bulletin  Sunday,  April 1 to sign up to provide a lily in honor
or in memory of someone.  Lilies are
$7.00 each.

One Great Hour of
Sharing

 Easter Sunday, we will receive the One Great
Hour of Sharing offering.  Since 1949
Presbyterians have joined with millions of other Christians through One Great
Hour of Sharing to share God’s love with those in need.  Your generous gifts assist those affected by
natural disasters, provide food for the hungry, and help build strong
communities.

CALENDAR OF
OPPORTUNITIES

March 28: Lenten
Service and lunch, Sparta United Methodist, 12:00

March 28:  Children ‘s
Activities and Choir, 5:30;  Adult
Choir Rehearsal:7:00

March 29:  Prayer Shawl Ministry, 10:30, Fellowship Hall

April 1:  Bible study, 9:30; Worship, 11:00

Prayer Reminder: This week we remember:  Ruth Kelly,   Doughton Tedder,  Ruth Dysart, Judy Church, Melanie Baker, Judy
Crouse, Dr. James Aycock, John Frazier, Vila Gentry, Luke Hampton, Tam Gambill,
Sue Smith, Gladys Holcomb, Alma Lefler, Catherine McGrady , Lorie Reavis,  David Carpenter, Billie Marsh, Wayne Andre ws,
Bob Lane, William Young, Dennis Franklin, and Dolly Lincoln. 

Sympathy is expressed
to the family of John Thomas who died on Monday, great uncle and “grandfather”
of Michael Hettleman. 

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE:  A Good Friday
service is planned for April 6 at NOON. The service is designed for those who
would attend on their lunch hour.  The
community will be invited to worship with us.
Please invite your friends, neighbors, and co-workers to attend.  Volunteer Lay Readers are still needed for
this service.  Please speak with Lynda
Benton to volunteer.

THANK YOU!

God’s church in Sparta Presbyterian is made stronger by so
many who make the personal contributions of time and talent.  Among the things that go on behind the
scenes  are:  the prayers of the people, taking care of the
finances, preparing the bulletin, taking out the trash, decorating the
fellowship hall for special events, keeping buildings and grounds in good
order, repairs and renovations, teaching, leading children, planning and
preparing music, leading in worship, congregational care, visiting the sick and
homebound, leadership on The Session,
inviting someone to worship,
volunteering  at Solid Rock,
Alleghany Cares, the hospital……….and the list goes on.  Our corporate worship is at 11:00 on
Sunday.  Our MINISTRY is all of the other
time.  What will you do?  Where will you go?  I am so grateful for each of you.  Pastor Bruce

COMING SOON:  OPERATION INASMUCH will occur on Saturday,
April 28.  That is the workday.  Additional information on projects will be
forthcoming. 

The Newsletter of Sparta Presbyterian Church

March 21, 2012

The Paschal Candle

Sparta Presbyterian is
fortunate to have a beautiful paschal candle and stand for use in our worship
commencing at Easter.  For us, the candle
presents the symbolism of Christ’s triumph over the darkness of sin and
death.  Throughout the fifty days of Easter,
the paschal candle is lighted for each worship until the Day of Pentecost.  After the Day of Pentecost, the paschal
candle remains on its stand near the baptismal font as a visual reminder that
in our baptism, we are crucified and resurrected with Christ.  The candle is lighted at each celebration of
baptism.  This serves as a visual
reminder of the integral connection between baptism and Easter.  For funerals, the paschal candle is
lighted.  In a visual way, the paschal
candle proclaims the message of Romans 6:3-5.
“In our Baptism we have already died and been raised with Christ.  (adapted from “Growing In Faith”)

If not before, I am
looking forward to seeing you in worship  Sunday.
Pastor Bruce

Lenten Services

The Lenten Services,
sponsored by the Ministerium, are being held on successive Wednesday’s at
noon.   A light lunch is served following the service.  Services are at Sparta United Methodist
Church.  Reverend Benton is the speaker
for this week.  Sparta Presbyterian is
responsible for the service and the lunch on March 21.  Please plan to attend each of the services as
we journey through Lent.

COMMUNION
PREPARATION:

The Worship Committee
would like volunteers to prepare communion for communion dates that are
established throughout the year.  The
remaining communion dates for 2012 are April 8 (Easter), May 27, October 7, and
November 25.  A December date has not
been determined. The elements of communion will be provided for preparation,
which should occur on the morning prior to the worship service.  Please speak with the pastor if you would
volunteer for this area of service.  The
most pressing need is to have communion prepared for Easter Sunday. 

STOP HUNGER NOW.

Julianna Franklin,
granddaughter of Carolyn Young has selected as her senior project at Wilkes Central High
School, to raise $2,500 to fund Stop Hunger Now meals.  Any contributions to the cause are due by
Friday, March 23 and are tax deductible.
Donations may be mailed to Julianna at 1468 Old 60, Wilkesboro, NC
28697.  Checks should be made payable to
Stop Hunger Now. 

Prayer Shawl
Ministry

The women of the church
and other community churches have begun a prayer shawl ministry.   The
next meeting is on Thursday, March 22 at 10:30 in the fellowship hall.   Materials Needed:  (crochet) Beginners should use size “J” or
“k” hooks and medium (4) worsted yarn.
Most shawls are made with light weight yarn and smaller needles but can
be made with simple stitches and heavier yarn.
If you are a “novice” please come and learn with others. Instructors and
materials are available. 

Pastoral Care or
Prayer List

Do you know of someone
who would appreciate a pastoral visit or someone who needs to be on the prayer
listing Please help the pastor know of special needs within the congregation or  friends of the church.  You may reach Bruce @ 828-434-0291 or at
brucebenton2@aol.com.

Sunday Sermon for
March 25—The Fifth Sunday in Lent

“Nobody Knows the
Trouble I’ve Seen”!  From John 12: 20-33,
Jesus predicts his own death and speaks “Now my heart is troubled, and what
shall I say?  Father, save me from this
hour”.  When troubles and adversity come
our way, what are the words of the first prayer we pray?  “Lord, don’t do this to me!”  Do you find yourself in a place where the
difficulties you face threaten to overwhelm you.  John assures us that God knows about our
troubles.  Our prayer should be “Father,
glorify your name!”  Come on Sunday for
the rest of the story.

Lilies for Easter

The Worship Committee
will provide an opportunity for the church family to offer lilies for the
chancel area for Easter Sunday.  An
insert will be in the bulletin on Sunday, March 25 and April 1 to sign up to
provide a lily in honor or in memory of someone.  Lilies are $7.00 each.

One Great Hour of
Sharing

On Easter Sunday, we
will receive the One Great Hour of Sharing offering.  Since 1949 Presbyterians have joined with
millions of other Christians through One Great Hour of Sharing to share God’s
love with those in need.  Your generous
gifts assist those affected by natural disasters, provide food for the hungry,
and help build strong communities. 

Forth Sunday
Fellowship Luncheon

Our fourth Sunday
potluck dinner will be on March 25 following the morning worship service.  Add just a bit extra to “the pot” and invite
someone to come with you on that day.

March 21: Lenten
Service and lunch, Sparta United Methodist, 12:00

March 21:  Children Activities and Choir, 5:30, Adult
Choir Rehearsal:7:00

March 25:  Bible study, 9:30; Worship, 11:00, Fellowship
potluck meal, noon.

Prayer Reminder: This week we remember:  Ruth Kelly,   Doughton Tedder,  Ruth Dysart, Judy Church, Melanie Baker, Judy
Crouse, Dr. James Aycock, John Frazier, Vila Gentry, Luke Hampton, Tam Gambill,
Sue Smith, Gladys Holcomb, Alma Lefler, Catherine McGrady , Lorie Reavis,  David Carpenter, Billie Marsh, Wayne Andre ws,
Bob Lane

GOOD FRIDAY SERVICE:  A Good Friday
service is planned for April 6 at NOON. The service is designed for those who
would attend on their lunch hour.  The
community will be invited to worship with us.
Please invite your friends, neighbors, and co-workers to attend.